Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, is calling for an immediate military investigation following the alleged destruction of a culturally significant statue and reported acts of brutality against civilians in the conflict-prone Bawku municipality.
Addressing the media in Accra, the MP condemned what he described as the “unwarranted use of force” by some security personnel deployed to the area under the government’s ongoing peacekeeping operation. According to Ayariga, eyewitness accounts and community leaders have confirmed that a statue symbolizing ancestral heritage was recently demolished, stirring deep anger and sorrow among residents.
“This was not just any structure it was a powerful symbol of unity, identity, and history for the people of Bawku,” Ayariga stated. “Its destruction, allegedly by military personnel, is a grave insult to our culture and must be investigated with urgency.”
In addition to the damage to cultural property, the MP alleged that several civilians have suffered abuse and intimidation in recent weeks. Reports include forced entry into homes, physical assaults, and arbitrary arrests all allegedly under the guise of enforcing security operations.
While the military has not publicly responded to the allegations, Ayariga insists that the Ghana Armed Forces must launch an independent internal inquiry to restore public trust and prevent further deterioration of community–military relations.
He also urged the Ministry of Defense and National Peace Council to intervene, stressing that peace in Bawku cannot be achieved through repression or the erasure of cultural symbols.
Civil society organizations have echoed the call, demanding accountability and a more human-centered approach to peacekeeping in the volatile region.
